I must thank the Honourable Minister and Robert for those very, very kind words they have spoken about me. I am deeply touched and shall try my best to measure up.

This honour has come very much as a surprise – a recognition by the Lim community in this country. I simply did not expect it.

But I do see this as one of the meaningful awards I have received, one that will give me a lot of pride. My parents would be very proud if they were here today.

I may have founded this university, but it is now a part of this country. It is intrinsically linked to this country.

It is heart-warming to know that there is such a strong sense of ownership and pride amongst the people of the Chinese community, especially the Lim community.

I shall receive this award on behalf of all the people with the surname Lim in the country. It will occupy a very special place in my heart.

In the spirit of 1Malaysia, I do hope this sense of accomplishment will also be shared by all in all other communities.

I certainly did not plan to be the first Lim in the world to establish a university. But it is good to know we are ahead of the millions of Lims in China and across the world.

The journey of a life-time is very short, but let’s hope this journey that I have started 20 years ago and that has now reached quite a few countries across the continents, will continue to move forward to become one of the most important education endeavours the world has ever seen.

Obviously I have not been on this journey alone. I would not have been able to do all that has been done all by myself. I must thank my loyal and dedicated staff who have stuck to me through thick and thin.

May I take this opportunity to announce the establishment of a 10 million ringgit scholarship fund under the Limkokwing Foundation. This fund will be to sponsor Chinese students in the acquisition of smart skills that will place them in high-tech and high-income careers. I shall work closely with the Lim Federation on its implementation.

On that note, may I thank the leadership of the Lim Federation once again for this very inspiring recognition. This day I shall always remember.

May I thank the Honourable Minister once again for putting aside time to grace this occasion.

To you, Ladies and gentlemen, a million thanks and endless good wishes.